My Why: I was raised by a single mother who provided me with a strong foundation for life but, naturally, was unable to teach me everything about being a man. Learning manhood without an example, especially as a black male, created many obstacles and questions. Community father figures and mentors built bridges for me which continue to guide my life everyday. Now as a father myself, it is deeply important that I am a strong example of fatherhood, manhood and service-driven action that will create an incessant community of holistic support for young males of color. I am a bridge builder!
IYT and Invincikids Partnership
IYT Partners with Invincikids to Advance Student Mental Wellness Through Immersive Technology
IYT Minnesota is proud to announce a new partnership with Invincikids to pilot their cutting-edge virtual reality technology at two of our partner schools. This exciting initiative aims to enhance mental wellness by providing immersive tools that help brothers manage stress, build resilience, and strengthen overall well-being.
The wellness of our brothers is a vital part of IYT’s mission to minimize obstacles and maximize success—both in school and beyond. Through this partnership, IYT continues to champion holistic support that empowers young men of color to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Park Center High School
The 65 brothers at Park Center High School sport new hoodies from the GRAVES Foundation after an inspiring month, including a meeting with Timberwolves player Rob Dillingham.
All 65 IYT brothers at Park Center High School received new hoodies donated by the GRAVES Foundation! We also participated in a virtual headset presentation on mental health and wellness in athletes and had the incredible opportunity to meet Minnesota Timberwolves Rob Dillingham—an inspiring experience that motivated them to keep pushing for greatness both on and off the court!
Hopkins High School
Brothers at Hopkins High School are gearing up for their college tour, staying focused in programming as their dedication pays off at mid-quarter.
Brothers at Hopkins High School are gearing up for the upcoming college tour while staying fully engaged in programming. As mid-quarter grades come in, their dedication and focus are starting to pay off, both in the classroom and beyond. We’re proud to see their hard work and commitment to growth shining through!
Brooklyn STEAM Middle School
Brothers at Brooklyn STEAM are kicking off an exciting year, focusing on their personal "WHY" and preparing for their upcoming college tour.
50 brothers are kicking off an exciting year with IYT! They’ve been fully engaged in programming, connecting during lunch, and participating in 1:1 sessions. BMS Brothers have focused on linking their personal ‘WHY’ to how they show up each day. They’re also gearing up for the upcoming college tour on November 5th to North Hennepin Community College.
North View Middle School
Fifty brothers at IYT at North View are kicking off a great year, building strong relationships and enthusiastically preparing for their upcoming college tour.
50 brothers are excited to kick off another great year with IYT! They’ve been fully engaged in programming, connecting over lunch, participating in 1:1 sessions, and building strong relationships. The brothers have shown great enthusiasm as they prepare for the upcoming college tour to North Hennepin Community College on November 5th, further strengthening their bond and commitment to growth.
St. Louis Park Middle School
8 new brothers at St. Louis Park Middle School have hit the ground running with IYT! They’re already showing great energy and curiosity as they dive into learning about IYT’s mission, values, and brotherhood. This strong start sets the tone for a year of growth, connection, and leadership development.
Richfield Middle School
The Richfield brothers are back and ready for an incredible year with IYT! Since programming officially kicked off on September 29th, they’ve been actively engaging in 1:1 sessions, connecting over lunch, and building strong bonds of brotherhood. Excitement is high as they prepare for their first college tour to North Hennepin Community College on November 4th—an inspiring step toward their academic and personal goals!
Grant Announcement
Thank you to the Huntington Foundation for your generous $20,000 grant!
Your support will help sustain staffing and provide hot meals for our brothers—two essential components that keep our programs thriving and impactful. This investment plays a vital role in advancing IYT’s mission to improve outcomes for young boys and men of color across Minnesota. We are deeply grateful for your partnership and commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders.
Champion Spotlight
At Improve Your Tomorrow, we are deeply grateful for the generous support of funders from across the nation who make our work possible. Your contributions fuel life-changing programs that empower young men of color to achieve their full potential in education, career, and community leadership. Together, we are building brighter futures and stronger communities. Thank you for believing in our mission!
Individuals
Cedric Baker
Ruthvin Gardiner
Dr. Jesse Mason
Salena Acox
Karen Rodriguez
Lisa Lambert
Miroslava Leon
Isa Kibira
Antonio Tate
Denise Butler
Kaikala Wangen
Kim Monette
Arthur Turner
Foundations:
Graves Foundation
NBA Foundation
Huntington Foundation
Wright Hennepin Cooperative
HB Fuller Foundation
Tickets for Kids
College & University Partners
North Hennepin Community College
University of Minnesota Duluth
Minnesota State University Mankato
Corporate Partners
AMPACT
Raising Canes
Chilli’s
4IMPRINT
Associated Bank
Upcoming Events
Name
Date & Time
Description
North Hennepin Community College Tour (Fall)
11/04/2025
Schools attending: Richfield MS
11/05/2025
Schools attending: Brooklyn STEAM MS, North View MS, Hopkins HS, Park Center HS
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